If you're looking to elevate your grilling game with a dish that bursts with flavor, look no further than this Grilled Zaatar Pork Loin! Marinated in a fragrant blend of Middle Eastern spices, this succulent pork loin promises to be the star of your next barbecue or family dinner. With just 10 minutes of prep and 25 minutes on the grill, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal that’s not only easy to make but also impressively delicious. Ready to tantalize your taste buds and make your guests beg for the recipe? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pork loin (about 2 lbs)
- 3 tablespoons of zaatar spice
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Remove the pork loin from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the zaatar spice adhere better and promotes better browning.
- In a small bowl, mix the zaatar spice, olive oil, salt, and fresh lemon juice to create a marinade paste.
- Generously rub the zaatar marinade all over the pork loin, ensuring complete and even coverage. Let the meat marinate for 15-20 minutes at room temperature.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400-425°F (204-218°C). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Place the marinated pork loin on the preheated grill and cook for approximately 12-13 minutes per side, rotating once halfway through to create beautiful grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature. The pork is done when it reaches 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part.
- Remove the pork loin from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes, which allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist result.
- Slice the pork loin against the grain into 1/2-inch thick pieces and serve immediately, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs or extra lemon wedges.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: Allow the pork loin to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step ensures even cooking and a juicy result.
- Dry the Meat: Pat the pork loin dry with paper towels before marinating. This helps the zaatar spice adhere better and promotes a beautiful sear.
- Marinate Wisely: Don’t rush the marination process! Let the pork loin soak in the zaatar marinade for 15-20 minutes to fully absorb those vibrant flavors.
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (400-425°F or 204-218°C) before placing the pork on it. This will help create those perfect grill marks and seal in the juices.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your pork is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The ideal internal temperature is 145°F (63°C) at the thickest part of the loin.
- Rest Before Slicing: Let the grilled pork loin rest for 10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist dish.
- Serve with Fresh Garnishes: For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges when serving. It adds a pop of color and enhances the overall presentation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 105mg
